Showing that I am an ally?
Hi!
TL;DR: I want to outwardly show that I see myself as an ally to have some impact on the current state of society. How can I do that in the most respectful way?
For context: I am a white, middle-aged, cis man, with the looks of an aged metalhead.
As hate for everyone not "normal" as defined by white christians is on the rise, I would like to signal to both LGBTQ+ members and the hateful people that there are allies out there.
Sometimes people I randomly talk to in my town start to comment on people being different, be it migrants or anyone out of their norm, apparently thinking I am "one of them". They are so superficial that they think that my rather colorless attire and "low-class" looks (I just like to be comfortable) mean I am right-leaning. In such situations I give them a stern talking-to, as rhetorically apt as I can be to maybe get a sliver of acceptance into their stubborn heads.
I recently saw a webcomic from an artist who described how wearing a trans necklace made a queer kid comfortable when they were anxious about it. That made me think how such worn statements can impact people. My intention is not to block discussions with narrow-minded people that just need some education, but to make LGBTQ+ folks more comfortable - AND hateful people uncomfortable.
So here's the real question: How can I show the people around me that I am an ally, in a respectful way towards the LGBTQ+-community? Or is that something not welcome? My intention is to help, not impede.
My current thoughts are revolving around ally flag pins or patches for my bags, hoodies and motorcycle riding gear, but I am open to any suggestions.